Issue 1,250
Local News for Local Communities
Friday 11th September 2026
Phone: 03 318 7450 | Email: info@malvernnews.co.nz | Web: www.malvernnews.co.nz Got something Newsworthy? Let us know too!
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Awarded for Bravery in Australia Page 5
Paint The Town Yellow Winner Page 7
Porters Local Ski Derby Page 11
YOUNG GYMNAST RISES TO THE CHALLENGE Twelve-year-old Josie Heasley, a dedicated young gymnast from Darfield, has been selected to represent Canterbury at the 2026 New Zealand Gymnastics Nationals in Tauranga from September 29 to October 3. Josie’s rise in the sport has been rapid. She began gymnastics at the West Melton Gymnastics Club where she was selected for the WAG competitive Step program just four and a half years ago. She now trains at Olympia Gym Sports in Christchurch, where her hard work continues to pay off. This season, Josie made a major leap, progressing from Step 3 straight into Step 5, skipping Step 4 altogether. Despite the increased difficulty, she has consistently performed strongly, achieving qualifying scores and placing among the top gymnasts at several competitions. For Josie, the achievement reflects the hard work she has put in behind the scenes.
Josie says, “I’m really happy to be representing Canterbury. I am super excited and a little nervous about going to Nationals but I’m very lucky to get to go and enjoy it. I just hope I get to Day Two – that’s my main goal. Coming from Step 3 last year is amazing, and I hope I continue moving up and doing well.” Josie’s mum says watching her take on the challenge of Step 5 has been truly inspiring. “Josie's worked so hard this year, and it has been magnificent watching her push through the challenges. I’m very proud to support her by making sure she can continue doing what she absolutely loves. Seeing her earn the opportunity to represent Canterbury is incredible.” Josie is looking forward to competing at Nationals, enjoying the experience and giving it her best. “I just want to go out there, have fun and do my very best.” she says. Josie and her mum would also
like to thank everyone who has supported her throughout the year and helped make this opportunity possible.
Anyone wishing to support Josie on her journey to the Nationals, can contact Yoie on 021 943 113.
Darfield gymnast Josie Heasley is heading to the 2026 New Zealand Gymnastics Nationals in Tauranga later this year.
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Friday 11th September 2026
SWAP MEET BRINGS ENTHUSIASTS AND COMMUNITY TOGETHER The Hororātā Mechanical Swap Meet returns to the Hororātā Domain on Saturday, September 19, bringing together mechanical enthusiasts from across New Zealand while supporting local community groups. Brought to the community by the Hororātā Community Trust, the Swap Meet has become a gathering for people who share a passion for all things mechanical. A true mechanical swap meet, it caters for vintage, veteran and classic cars and motorcycles, tractors, machinery, tools, parts and mechanical-related treasures. For buyers, it is a chance to hunt for that elusive part, find something unexpected or simply have a good fossick around. “The Swap Meet brings together a really unique community of people who
share a passion for all things mechanical,” says Hororātā Community Trust Executive Officer Cindy Driscoll. “It doesn’t matter whether you’re into classic cars, old tractors, motorbikes, tools or restoring something in the shed, there’s a real camaraderie amongst the people who come along. They love sharing their knowledge, having a yarn and seeing what everyone else has been working on. You don’t have to be looking to buy something to enjoy the day. There are always interesting vehicles and machinery to see, along with plenty of characters who are more than happy to talk about them.” Owners of interesting cars, motorcycles and tractors are also invited to bring them along and join the Show & Shine. It doesn’t have to be
perfect or polished – if it is interesting and you are proud of it, bring it along for others to enjoy. Sellers are encouraged to clear out their sheds and bring along parts, tools, projects and other mechanical bits and pieces that could be exactly what someone else has been searching for. There is no need to book a site, sellers can simply turn up from 6:30am and pay cash at the gate. Community groups are an important part of the event. This year Hororātā School, Hororātā Historical Society, Glentunnel School and Whitecliffs Hall will all be involved on the day, raising funds for their own community projects. Gates open to the public at 7:30am. The event is cash only, so come prepared. For more information, visit www.hororata.org.nz.
There’s something for everyone if you have a passion for all things mechanical.
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Friday 11th September 2026
PUBLIC ROLES, PRIVATE LIVES:
JOHN HALL AND KATE SHEPPARD AT HOME On September 20 and 27, 2026, visit two homes and hear about two lives focused on one remarkable campaign for women’s suffrage. Mark the 133rd anniversary of women’s suffrage by following the story from Kate Sheppard’s Christchurch home to Sir John Hall’s country home in Hororata across two special Sundays. Part I — Kate Sheppard House 1:30pm Sunday, September 20 Join Helen Osborne, Property Lead at Kate Sheppard House, and Kate Foster, historian and great-granddaughter of Sir John
Hall, to explore the lives and political partnership of two influential suffrage advocates. Hear how their very different experiences brought them together in the campaign that led to women winning the vote in 1893, followed by a tour of Kate Sheppard’s home and its extensive spring garden. Part II — Terrace Station, Hororata 12pm Sunday, September 27 The following weekend, continue the story at Terrace Station, the historic home of Sir John and Rose, Lady Hall. Bring a picnic and enjoy complimentary tea and coffee. Hear stories from Kate Foster
DARFIELD ARTWEEK.
CREATIVITY AT THE HEART OF OUR COMMUNITY New to Darfield? You may have heard people talking about Darfield Artweek and wondered what it’s all about. Darfield Artweek is a celebration of the creativity, talent and community spirit of our local area. Held each October, it brings together artists from across Selwyn and Canterbury for a nice day exhibition and the opportunity to discover the incredible range of creative work happening right here in our community. It’s more than just an art exhibition. Artweek is a chance to meet local artists, see work in all sorts of styles and mediums, support local creativity and perhaps even discover a new favourite artist. It’s also a great opportunity to get out and explore Darfield, with the Recreation Centre transformed into a vibrant exhibition space for the week.
Whether you’re an established artist, someone who has recently started creating, or simply enjoy making things in your spare time, there’s a place for you in Darfield Artweek. Entries for Darfield Artweek 2026 are now open but not for much longer! Entries close Wednesday 30 September. If you’ve been thinking about entering, now is the time to get your work ready and submit your entry. The 2026 Artweek runs from 10–18 October, with the Opening Night taking place at Darfield Recreation Centre on Friday 9 October, tickets available at Trybooking.com Come along, get involved and see what our creative community has to offer. Darfield Artweek is one of the highlights of the local arts calendar and we’d love to see you be part of it.
about this historic home and look into the front rooms. View Sir John's office to see suffrage memorabilia and then explore the extensive garden. Tickets: $25 for one or attend both for $49.90. Go to terracestation.org.nz to book.
Please see advert on this page for more details.
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Friday 11th September 2026 The informa on and opinions published are not necessarily those of the Malvern News proprietor. The final approval of le ers for print, rests with the editor. Le ers to the Editor should be no more than 200 words in length. Le ers to the Editor won’t be considered for publica on without the writer’s name (given and surname) and area of residence (not address) also being printed. Le ers wri en using a pseudonym, are unable to be published.
To the Editor: Councillors John Verry and Sam Wilshire want us to complete a health survey " ...to build a clearer picture of health care needs and services ... available closer to home." We do not need more of the same, but a new approach to healthcare. We need professionals to coach us in a science -based method of eating and building muscle that will improve our health. A lot of what we have been taught is the opposite of reality. For example, I have suffered from gout, the blame has been pointed at meat. Reduce meat and cure gout. But now I find out from other doctors that if I only eat meat, I will never get gout. How can these both be true? Also, we need a new approach to diabetes. Apparently, diabetes can be mitigated or reversed, but are people told how, or are they just given pills or insulin. More of the same will only lead to more sickness, pills and obesity. Healthcare should be a preventative approach where the doctors and nurses are very rarely needed. Thank you.
Christopher Dennis, Darfield.
GET ENROLLED, GET READY TO VOTE If you haven’t received your enrolment pack, sort it now. It could mean you are not enrolled or that the Electoral Commission needs your current address. Not sure who to vote for? That’s no reason to skip enrolling. Visit www.whichparty.nz to compare parties and help make an informed choice. If you don’t vote, you can’t moan afterwards. Enrolling only takes a few minutes and makes sure you are ready when voting opens. You can check or update your enrolment details at vote.nz, vote.nz or visit a local enrolment hub for help in person. Enrol by October 4 to receive an EasyVote card. The last day to enrol or update your details is midnight on October 25. Voting starts on October 26, and election day is November 7.
ACTIVE INVESTORS PROFIT FROM PASSIVE FUNDS By Greg McGeorge, Shaw and Partners Financial Adviser. Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have transformed investing, making it cheap and easy to invest. But some are creating opportunities for investors as their trading has become so predictable that active investors can profit from it. Consider two times leveraged ETF on Nvidia. If you invest $100 into the ETF, the ETF lends you another $100, you now have a $200 exposure. If Nvidia rises 3%, your return is 6%, taking your investment to $206. But now your $206 ($106 + $100) is no longer twice the capital. To restore the 2x leverage, the ETF must buy more shares, in this example,
another $6 to bring your 2x leverage to $212. If the stock falls, the opposite happens. Crucially, these trades are predictable as they happen towards the end of the trading day. Active investor will know how the ETF will trade at the close and trade ahead of it. If an ETF is expected to buy shares at the close, a hedge fund can buy those shares earlier and sell them back at the higher price. The ETF is effectively buying high and selling low, while the active trader is doing the opposite. Passive investing may be simple, but it doesn't mean the market around it is. Investors are identifying
predictable trading by passive funds and positioning themselves to profit from it (then there’s the rebalancing the ETF’s are forced to do if the underlying index changes). Passive investing isn’t wrong, low-cost funds have an important role. But passive doesn’t always mean smart. Once the rules are known investors can profit from the forced buying and selling. In other words, the structure itself can become the opportunity for someone else.
years’’ Greg has over 35 years experience in financial markets, both in New Zealand and London, working with individuals and families on long term wealth and retirement planning.
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Friday 11th September 2026
AWARDED FOR BRAVERY Darfield father and son Steven Daw and Jack Daw, 18, have been recognised for extraordinary bravery after pulling a man from a burning, overturned car moments before it exploded. The pair were recently awarded the Commendation for Brave Conduct by the Australian Governor-General, along with Certificates of Bravery from the Queensland Ambulance Service. Jack moved to Darfield with his parents about a year ago. He now works at the Darfield ITM and serves as a volunteer firefighter. In October 2024, Steven and Jack were volunteer rural firefighters in Queensland when they came across a vehicle rollover in Dalysford. The driver was trapped inside the car, while bystanders had already called emergency services. As flames began to take hold, Steven and Jack rushed in, despite having no official crash
-rescue training. Working near leaking fuel and exploding tyres, they freed the driver and dragged him clear. Minutes later, the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames and erupted. Jack then provided basic first aid until paramedics arrived and took the driver to Bundaberg Hospital in a stable condition. Despite the seriousness of the crash, the driver reportedly remained focused on one practical detail: he had just filled the car with a full tank of petrol. Jack says he and his father felt “incredibly honoured and humbled” by the commendation and were “quite taken aback” by the recognition. “The commendation is an absolute honour and means so much to myself and my family. Nothing could have prepared us for the recognition we received; however, there are plenty more deserving people out there, most of whom are
Jack and Steven Daw from Darfield, have been recognised for extraordinary bravery, in Australia, after pulling a man from a burning, overturned car moments before it exploded.
unrecognised,” he says. After the driver was released from hospital, Jack said they caught up with him and his wife and later saw him again at gatherings with mutual friends. “We were just glad he was able to return home that day,” he says. The experience has stayed with Jack. “It just goes to show that you never truly know what’s around the corner, and that life is fragile and can be over in an instant. Enjoy it while you can, and don’t let minor setbacks hold you back,” he says. Volunteering with the fire brigade remains an important part of Jack’s life. “Volunteering is 100% worth it. I wouldn’t be where I am today without it. The life skills, experiences, and friends you make along the way are some of the best you will ever have,” he says. Their extraordinary bravery was formally celebrated nationwide on September 1, 2026, as part of the Australian brave conduct honours list.
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Friday 11th September 2026
BOOKS CREATE A BIG BUZZ AT SPRINGFIELD SCHOOL Springfield School has just celebrated Book Week over a two-week period during August. The two weeks focused on everything book-related and helped promote the love of reading with students. Activities included a visit from The Selwyn Edge Connector with engaging sessions about story books, navigating the library catalogue and some fun with robotics; a PTA Read-a-
thon fundraiser, where students sought sponsorship for their reading and were motivated and dedicated to their reading. To round off the two weeks the school held a Book Character Day, where students dressed up as their favourite character and, took part in a parade around Springfield. They enjoyed book related arts and crafts, a hot chip lunch
donated by Springfield Hotel, raffle prize draw sponsored by Springfield Service Centre, face painting volunteered by Springfield local Magenta, and a Where's Wally scavenger hunt. Springfield School PTA spokesperson Hannah Bedford says, “It was wonderful and very positive two weeks with a real buzz about reading.”
COMMUNITY VOICES AT HEART OF RURAL HEALTH PLANNING By Zoran Rakovic, Independent Candidate for the Selwyn Electorate. Health New Zealand’s recent Community Patient Journey Workshop in Darfield brought together health professionals from Selwyn and the wider Canterbury area, along with community representatives, to help shape future rural health services. Facilitated by Health New Zealand, the workshop worked
through six different patient journeys. The workshop looked at what was working well, what was not working so well, and what practical changes could improve access and outcomes. The groups then identified common themes and priorities for Health New Zealand’s rural health planning. For me, one of the most valuable aspects was being able to bring direct community feedback into the room. Over recent months, residents in Malvern and Ellesmere have been sharing their experiences through our rural health questionnaires. I was able to contribute those responses to the discussion, including the strong message that people want better access to primary care and, above all, more GPs closer to home. There was recognition that recruiting and retaining GPs is difficult, particularly in rural communities. But that
challenge only makes it more important that local needs are clearly recorded and understood. Health New Zealand deserves credit for creating a practical and constructive way for communities and health professionals to contribute directly to future planning. If you live in Malvern or Ellesmere, there is still time to add your voice. Please see the latest Rural Life section in the Selwyn Times for details on how to access the questionnaires. Every response helps build a clearer picture of what rural communities need. Tāwera Malvern resident's questionnaire links: forms.gle/ Sbo6r4kmy7oA7vs1A.
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Friday 11th September 2026
A VICTORIAN EXPEDITION TO LAKE IDA IN THE 1860S PART ONE - LADY BARKER BARKER Lady Barker arrived in the Selwyn district in May 1866 with her husband, joint owner of the 10,000-acre Steventon Station near Whitecliffs. To supplement their income, she wrote about colonial life, later publishing Station Life in NZ and Station Amusements in NZ.
Writing of her backcountry adventures, she recalled a surprise visit that sparked a multi-day skating expedition: "A distant neighbour rode up to our garden gate, leading a heavily laden packhorse. Outside the saddlebags could be plainly seen a beautiful new pair of Oxford skates, glinting
Above: Lady Mary Anne Barker and her second husband Frederick Broome married in 1865 and moved to New Zealand in 1866. After they lost 4,000 of their 7,000 sheep in a severe blizzard in 1867, he sold his share of Steventon Farm in December 1868 and returned to England. Below: Showing the distance from Whitecliffs to Lake Ida.
Lake Ida
Whitecliffs
AND THE WINNER IS ...
Kirwee Challenge turned heads not only of their customers for their stunning window display but also of the Malvern Cancer Support Group judges. Kirwee Challenge staff member Amanda Feltel proudly holds the annual award for the competition in front of her bright and creatively designed window display. The competition is an annual business event held in the Malvern district in support of Daffodil Day.
in the sunshine. He remarked that there was a capital lake ten miles from his homestead where he was sure of a good day's skating any time between June and August. He cordially invited us to ride up to his run the very next day and skate as long as we liked. The next morning found three of us mounted, our modest kits carrying our skates alongside our essentials. We entered the high mountain gorges to the west and soon lost the sun. The brief winter twilight faded swiftly amid those dark defiles, and it was pitch dark by five o'clock when the welcome clamour of station dogs announced our arrival. We stayed near the shores of great Lake Coleridge, which never freezes on account of its depth and sunny aspect. The next morning was bitterly cold, yet if we meant to have a full day's skating, we had to start at once. Setting spurs to our horses, we bounded over the paddock slip -rails. The track was terribly broken by swamps, quicksands, and blind creeks. After two hours' hard riding through these rugged gorges, a sharp turn brought us full in view of Lake Ida. In the cleft of a huge, bare hill lay a large sheet of black ice, untouched by sunshine from autumn until spring. We buckled on our skates and spent the day skimming, gliding, and falling across the frozen tarn. We returned to our host's homestead each evening for a hearty meal, and for several days made the daily trek back to our gloomy skating ground. When we finally rode away on Friday evening, a heavy pall of cloud crept over the mountains, leaving Lake Ida behind in her winter numbness."
Next week: Part 2 – Carving roads and opening Lake Ida post--war public to the post in the 1940s by Jeanette L y ttle .
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Friday 11th September 2026
COUNCILLOR AT LARGE UPDATE By SDC Councillor Tracey MacLeod. I am one of your at-large councillors for Selwyn District Council, and it is almost a year since I was elected to serve Selwyn. Above all, being a councillor is about service; listening, asking questions, doing the work and making decisions that can be defended with evidence. Eight of our 11 councillors were new after the election. I am particularly grateful to Sophie McInnes and Mayor Lydia Gliddon for sharing their knowledge, and to Council staff who have embraced change. I also acknowledge Cr John Verry and Cr Samuel Wilshire for their work in this ward, and the Malvern Community Board for the vital link it provides between residents and Council. I have enjoyed collaborating with Bex Lambie and Alan Peacock.
As an at-large councillor, I have made a point of getting out across this large and varied area. I have visited Castle Hill to learn about the Dark Sky project, Lake Coleridge Village to hear about local plans, attended a Sheffield meeting on speed concerns, met Darfield High School principal Andy England, and represented Council at the Glentunnel and Hororata Anzac Day services. I have also helped residents with individual issues. I attended Health New Zealand workshops, while Council’s halls consultation has resulted in a pilot involving three local halls. Darfield also faces challenges from new development and fast-track proposals. Coming from Lincoln, I understand concerns about rapid growth and pressure on infrastructure and character. Water remains a recurring theme – too much or not
enough. With a dry summer possible, rural resilience and fire risk remain important. We want residents involved early as we develop the LongTerm Plan. Your knowledge helps us weigh trade-offs, while keeping a lid on rates rises. My evidence-based approach shaped my HeadStart position: residents did not want amalgamation, and we had no credible evidence of either the savings or establishment costs. There is much more to do, but I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve Malvern’s communities.
COUNCIL MAKES KEY APPOINTMENTS TO SUPPORT FUTURE GOVERNANCE Selwyn District Council has confirmed a series of recent appointments across three important governance entities, helping ensure strong leadership and oversight as the district continues to grow. Mayor Lydia Gliddon said the changes reflected Council's commitment to effective governance and planning for the future. "As Selwyn continues to grow
and evolve, it's important we have the right people in place to provide strong governance, independent oversight and strategic direction.” "These appointments help position us well for the opportunities and challenges ahead and ensure our organisations are well equipped to serve our communities now and into the future."
New appointments from left to right: Shaun Clarke (Selwyn Water Limited Board), Jen Crawford (Selwyn Water Limited Board), Megen McKay (Board of CORDE), Carol Bellette (Audit and Risk Committee) and Allan Dawson (Selwyn Water Limited Board).
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Friday 11th September 2026
AUGUST RAINFALL DARFIELD by Birchfield Energy & Resource Ltd: We had seven days of rain and 65mm for the month with 20mm on August 27. Our yearto-date total is 606mm. ANNAT by Allan Hogg: Annat received 69.5mm for August, our average is 70.37mm. Our year-to-date is 596.25mm, still well ahead of our all-year's average to the end of August, of 548.5mm. Rain fell on 10 days, with our wettest day being 33.5mm on August 26; 48 days between
significant (10mm or more) rain. Our warmest day was 18°, half a degree less than you would expect for August. The average daytime-high was 12.6°, only .2° less than the all-year average. The coldest night was -6.6°, our coldest August night since 2016. The spring nor' westers arrived in the middle of the month, a little earlier than last year, but after a prolonged period of very few spring-winds. Perhaps this heralds a return to the Canterbury of old, where nor' west gales blew from August to November or even later.
SPRINGFIELD by Tom Innes: We received 88mm against our August average of 80mm. Things were looking dry earlier in the month, so the 65mm we received on August 25-28 was most welcome. The garden appreciated it and our rainwater tanks are full again. Our year-to-date total is 635mm, being 90% of our average figure at this time of the year. Wind seems to have been the order of the day, and this is forecast to continue into Spring and Summer. More wind means we require more rain to maintain soil moisture, so we shall see what happens.
DRY SPELLS REVEAL EL NIÑO’S LOCAL IMPACT By Allan Hogg. El Nino is most common every three to five years, but it can be as little as two years, or as long as seven years. For Annat, this coincides with prolonged dry spells. *1997: October 1997 to March 1999 - 16 months 2005: January 2005 to April 2006 - 15 months 2007: January 2007 to May 2008 - 16 months *2014: 2014: July 2014 to September 2016 - 27 months 2019: August 2019 to April 2021 - 21 months 2023: November 2023 to May 2024 - 7 months
My time periods are based on my own observations and differ from Met Office records. I believe a dry spell to be three months of less than two-thirds of the expected average monthly rainfall. The two recent El Nino events that get the Met Service excited are 1997-1998* and 2015-2016*. In Annat these were two totally different events. In 1997, it was windy from August to April 1998, with the nor' wester blowing moderate to strong throughout the period. Rainfall was light,
highlighted by 19.25mm in November, 8.75mm in January and 19.5 for February. The autumn was average, but the spring of 1998 was dry with the nor' wester biting hard in September and October. By November the tide was turning, the winds had abated and at the end of February 1999 the heavens opened. 2014 was a different kettle of fish. In July, the tap was turned off and a year that had delivered 463.25mm to the end of June, delivered only 229.5mm for the rest of the year. In 2015, we had 484.25mm for the entire year. January 2016 gave us 117mm for the month, but this was only a tease, as the rest of the year, to the end of September, only gave 308mm. The silver lining, if there was one, was that the nor' wester was very benign throughout, and the temperatures were about average. With the aid of rainfall records, taken locally for the period 1923-1955, we can see how badly the Annat region is suffering. The average rainfall for the 1923-1955 period was 987mm per year. For the
period 1988-2026 the average rainfall was 804mm. Only two of the years between 1923 and 1955 are below today's average rainfall. El Nino did happen, but not as we know it. As for this year, well, your guess is as good as mine. El Niño is a naturally occurring climate pattern that causes the surface waters of the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean to become significantly warmer than average. In New Zealand, El Niño typically brings stronger westerly or south-westerly winds, leading to drier conditions in the north and east of the country and wetter conditions in the south and west.
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Friday 11th September 2026
ROLLESTON TECHNICIAN WINS JOHN DEERE AWARD New Zealand’s top John Deere technicians and apprentices have been recognised alongside their Australian peers at the sixth annual John Deere Technician of the Year Awards, held in Brisbane last week. The awards followed an intensive testing programme at John Deere’s Crestmead headquarters in Queensland, where 30 finalists from New Zealand and Australia completed practical, diagnostic and technical challenges across two days. The event included two New Zealand winners, with James Doherty, of Drummond & Etheridge in Rolleston, named New Zealand Agriculture & Turf Service Technician of the Year. A farm kid from the South Island, the 26-year-old grew up around John Deere tractors
and says working on them was the career he always wanted. “When I left school in 2017, there was pretty much only one option for me, and that was to go and work on tractors,” he said. “It’s all I ever wanted to do, and John Deere has always been the brand for me.” James is known for his product knowledge and dedication, with customers specifically asking for him when they need technical support. He said the award was a proud moment and reflected the encouragement he had received throughout his career. He particularly enjoys working on the modern 8R Tractor and X9 Series Combine Harvester, although the 2850 utility tractor he has at home remains his favourite. John Deere Managing Director Australia and New Zealand Luke Chandler said the calibre of this year’s winners reflected the strength of the company’s dealer network and the important role technicians and parts professionals played in
keeping customers operating. “The finals are designed to put competitors under real pressure, testing not only their technical knowledge but their ability to diagnose problems, think critically and deliver practical solutions, That expertise is built over time through strong dealer investment in training, development and hands-on experience, and it is reflected every day in the support our teams provide to New Zealand farmers, contractors and businesses.”
A passion for all things John Deere: James Doherty with his New Zealand Agriculture & Turf Service Technician of the Year award.
DARFIELD GARDEN CLUB The Darfield Garden Club August meeting was held at the Catholic Centre with a great attendance and new members welcomed. Our guest speaker was Brigit Blair from Linden Leaves. She gave us a history of her business from early beginnings from when her daughter had eczema and providing a different solution to exporting to Korea then Japan and ultimately back here in New Zealand. It was so interesting to hear of the processes involved in the making of oils and creams especially the making of the freeze-dried fruits used in the oils. Linden Leaves skincare and well-being is devoted to natural luxury, is kiwi owned and made with love in New Zealand. This month’s competitions went to: Most points flowers – Ann Gibson, Novice Decorative – Beatrix Parker, and Open Decorative – Doreen Moore. The Barbara’s Challenge was for ‘Garden Memorabilia’ and was voted by members. Elizabeth Forrest won with her hose rose that had come out from England with her great grandfather John Fox in 1874. He had worked at Kew Gardens, worked for about a year for the Hon. Robert Campbell in North Otago’s Campbell Park clearing the land and planting the orchards, a gardener at the Oamaru Gardens and he grew seeds that were sold in Oamaru and Dunedin. Elizabeth still uses the hose rose regularly in her garden. Our next meeting will be held at the Recreation Centre on Tuesday, September 15 at 1.30pm and is our Spring Flower Show. The show is open to all at 1pm. To find out more about the Club, email darfieldgardenclub@gmail.com. Lee Stokes.
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Friday 11th September 2026
YOUNG SKIERS CONQUER LOCAL DERBY CHALLENGE CREATIVE SESSION WITH A TWIST Come along to Connect Through Creativity on Thursday, September 24, from 7pm at Darfield Recreation Centre. This session includes charcoal, graphite, and other mediums to explore line work with a little musical chairs twist, moving around the table and adding to each other’s drawings along the way. To book your place, phone Terri on 021 225 9323 or email terri.winder91@gmail.com. WOOF - BARK UP IS BACK! Darfield Young Farmers (DYF) Bark Up is back again for another year of yapping good fun! This year’s categories include Huntaway, Female Huntaway, Heading/Pet Dog, Human, and Juniors (under 16) sections. Organisers say they can’t wait to see everyone there again. A DYF spokesperson says, “It’s guaranteed to be a good night with a live band playing, and self-contained camping at Thirsty Acres.” So, bring you dogs down and get involved, there is something for everyone! Bark up starts at 4pm on Saturday, October 3 LOCAL SELECTED FOR UNDER 21 POLO MATCH The New Zealand Polo Association has officially announced two New Zealand Under 21 Test Teams to face the USA in January 2027. James Reid, of Kirwee, has been selected for the South Island team match to be held on Wednesday, January 6, 2027, at Amuri Polo Club in Culverden. NO MORE LONELY CUPPAS The Chatty Cafe Scheme NZ is expanding into the South Island, with a local spot near Christchurch Airport getting
ready to set up one of the city's first Chatty Tables. A Chatty Table is one table in a café, set aside at the same day and time each week and marked with a sign, where anyone is welcome to sit down and talk to whoever else is there. No booking, no cost, no need to know anyone. Buy your own cuppa at the counter, pull up a chair and stay five minutes or the whole hour. Chatty Table would love to bring more Canterbury venues on board so if there's a café or community space you'd love to see a Chatty Table, visit chattycafe.co.nz. Chatty Café NZ is an initiative of GrandFriends NZ, a registered charity working on connection and belonging across Aotearoa. CULTURE FEST TURNS 10 What started as a small community event with a handful of performers, cultural displays and a shared morning tea has grown into one of Selwyn’s most popular annual events, attracting more than 5,000 people each year. This year, Selwyn’s CultureFest is being held on Sunday 13 September, 10am - 3pm, in Lincoln. This year more than 30 cultures from around the world will be celebrated at the Festival, including Argentina, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Japan, Hong Kong and Nigeria. Alongside food stalls and cultural performances, those attending can enjoy a range of family-friendly activities, including a new Japanese arts and crafts area. This year, the festivities will continue with a Variety Dance Club workshop, including Bollywood, line dancing and Latin dance classes, along with a Filipino folktale storytelling session and beginner Japanese classes. Bookings are available online at selwyn.govt.nz/events
The Porters Local Derby 2026 was held on Monday, August 31 in some extremely challenging conditions. Strong winds and a difficult course made for a testing day on the slopes, and every local child who took part should be incredibly proud of their efforts. With the conditions proving too difficult to safely complete a second run, the competition was decided on just one run, but that one run produced some fantastic racing. The conditions really pushed the young skiers to their limits, making the impressive times and results even more special. Darfield Primary School had a particularly strong turnout this year, entering 16 individual skiers across four teams – the largest number of teams the school has entered at the Local Derby in a long time. The team came away with several podium finishes, including two first places and a third place.
The school also celebrated an outstanding individual performance from Brockton Kerr, who took out first place in Fastest Boy Year 1-6 and first place in Fastest Overall Year 1-8. It was a fantastic achievement for Brockton and a great result for Darfield Primary, particularly given the challenging conditions. Congratulations go to all 16 Darfield Primary skiers, who got out on the hill and competed. It was not an easy day, and their determination and willingness to race in such difficult conditions is something the whole school and local community can be proud of. RESULTS
Girls: • 2nd Nemah Parsons Riley, DHS • 4th Willa Dickens, DPS • 5th Della Deuchrass, DPS • 7th Heidi Youdale DHS • 9th Alenia de Lange, Glentunnel • 10th Sienna Reed DPS Boys: • 1st Brockie Kerr, DPS • 2nd Griffin de Lange, DHS • 3rd Oscar Cox, Glentunnel • 4th Carter Webster, Springfield • 5th Bertie Nicholls, DPS • 6th Kip Gilmour, DHS • 7th Theo McLeod, DPS • 8th Freddie Cox, Glentunnel • 9th Theo Dickens, DHS • 10th Ethan Samson, DHS.
• 1st Place – Mixed Team Year
1–6 - Bertie Nicholls, Theo McLeod, Willa Dickens, and Della Deuchrass. • 3rd Place – Mixed Team Year 1 – Brockton Kerr, Max Taylor, and Evie Stevenson Outstanding individual (top 10) results from local schools
Darfield Primary School student Brockton Kerr gives his best on the slopes at the Porters Local Derby 2026 and reaps the rewards.
MALVERN NETBALL PRIZEGIVING Malvern Netball Trophies: • Year 7/8 Round 1 Winner: Darfield Goal Diggers • Social Round 1 Winner: Darfield Fauxpas • Year 7/8 R/Up: Kirwee Hurricanes • Year 7/8 Winner: Darfield Steelers • Social Runner Up: Springfield/Sheffield Cowgirls • Social Winner: Darfield Fauxpas • Senior Runner Up: Darfield Seniors • Senior Winner: Kirwee Seniors • Most Improved Umpire: Kate Goodsell • Umpires Trophy: Rubie Dalley • Terina Graham F/Ferns: Debbie Henderson • Grice & Read Goal Aggregate: Kirwee Seniors • Fair Play Supporter: Kayla Croy
• Integrity Cup:
South Malvern Minis • Executive Cup:
Darfield Goal Diggers • Betty Black (Highest
Achiever): Anna Sheen • Betsy Little - Services to
Malvern: Lorraine Strowger & Adele Davidson
Anna Sheen was awarded the Betty Black Trophy as the highest achiever in umpiring.
Darfield Fauxpas team - back: Jorja Slattery, Hilary Philips, Tina Green, Amelia Brand, Jo Baldwin, Maddison Coelho, Jade Dalley and Saskia van Garderen. Front: Mandy McCaughan. Absent: Jaymee McGowan and Julia Dos Santos Rigo. Darfield Fauxpas had a fabulous season, winning the Social Round 1 Trophy as well as the Social overall winners receiving the Searle Challenge Shield which is shared with the overall winner of the Senior grade - Kirwee Seniors.
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Friday 11th September 2026
GOLF RESUKLTS
GREENDALE GOLF 5 Sept2026 - Stroke Play Competition P Bee 68 M Elliot 70 M Nagayama 70 S Barnett 71 C Gordon 71 M Anderson 71 T Youngman 71 S Hygate 72 G Hawker 72 L Barnett 72 L Tattersall 72 Nearest Pins #3 L Barnett # 7 A Webb # 9 H Macphee #13 S Hygate # 17 S Johnstone Men's Longest Drive P Youngman Ladies Longest Drive M Nagayama Ladies Longest Putt K Adams Longest Putt L Tattersall Twos M Elliot G Hawker x2 W Watson A Russell M Anderson Eagle On #4 M Anderson
HORORATA GOLF Results 1 September 2026 Competition LGU & Putting S Neutze 72 J Helmore 76 B Bryant 76 Putting S Neutze 28 1x Putts C Gurney 9 Men G Marsh 41 I Palmer 35 Nearest the Pin J Helmore Two’ Two’s D Collier J Helmore
A PASSION FOR RACING PAYS OFF Budding kart racer and West Melton School student Harry Gradwell (9) recently travelled to Auckland to attend the Karting New Zealand Awards Night, after discovering he had been nominated for an award. The young lad was excited to receive the Earl Bamber Rookie of the Year award, a welldeserved recognition that reflects his multiple national successes during his first year of karting, including his outstanding performances on the track, one of these being his success at the karting Nationals where he came
second in New Zealand. Harry’s hard work, determination, resilience, and passion for karting have been evident throughout the season. Harry loves the competition karting brings, and the constant pressure to perform every time he gets on the track, he enjoys chasing lap times, bring trophies home and also meeting new people across the country that share the same passion for going fast. West Melton School principal Tracey Riley says, “It is fantastic to see these qualities
recognised with such a special achievement. We are so proud of Harry and can’t wait to see what the future hold.”
Budding kart racer Harry Gradwell.
DARFIELD RUGBY CLUB 2026 JUNIOR PRIZEGIVING WINNERS Year 1 Blue • Most Improved (MI) Angus Sommers • Most Dedicated (MD) Wyatt Fennell Year 1 Red • MI - Asher Bayes-Mortimer • MD - Iewan Klienhans Year 1 Yellow • MI - Evie Galletly • MD - Cooper Trafford-Adams Year 2 Blue • MI - Oshea Amohau • MD - Elsie Lockhart Year 2 Red • MI - Georgia Thom • MD - Hannah Peddie Year 3 Blue • MI - Anika Muller • MD - Benji Sundstrum • Tackler - Sophie McIlroy Year 3 Red • MI - Lucy McIndoe • MD - Arran Deuchrass Year 4 • MI - Blake Van Camp • MD - Luke Gough • Tackler - Archie Smith Year 5 • MI - Fletcher Howard • MD - Henry Dalley • Tackler - Angus Scollay Year 6 • MI - Lorenzo Bavin • MD - Andrew Mulholland • Tackler - Isaac Bell Year 7 • MI - Charlie Barwood • MD - Harry Leech • POY- Ethan Pietzner • Tackler - Connor Weir
Year 8 • MI - Lucas Hayes • MD – Keegan Blacklock • POY - Zak Grant • Tackler - Ayden Taljaard Malvern Year 9 • MI - Spencer Van den Berg • MD - Blair Cleugh • POY - Alex Friend • Tackler - Corrin Smith CLUB AWARDS Year 1 Red: Most Dedicated: • DRFC Female Player of the Year Iewan Klienhans and Most Alyce Dering Improved: Asher Bayes-Mortimer. • SG Gillanders Trophy Team Manager of the Year - Amanda Fallow-Pender • Tony Paterson Memorial Most Improved Team - Year 6 • Darfield High School Trophy Best Off-field Contribution -Adam Sweetman
Year 3 Blue: Tackler of the Year: Sophie McIlroy, Most Dedicated: Benji Sundstrum and Most Improved: Anika Muller.
DRFC Female Player of the Year: Alyce Dering
SG Gillanders Trophy Team Manager of the Year: Amanda Fallow-Pender
Page 13
Friday 11th September 2026 PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
29 Aug - 24 Sept Wild Weaving Art Exhibition Te Huanui Art Gallery 11 Sept 10:30am Property Brokers Charity Golf Tournament Hororata Golf Club 12 Sept 10am Spiritual Well being Expo Darfield Rec Centre 12 Sept North Canterbury Wearable Arts Rangiora Baptist Church 13 Sept 10am Selwyn Culture Fest Lincoln Event Centre 14 Sept 1pm Malvern News - Editorial Deadline - info@malvernnews.co.nz 14 Sept 10am Rolleston News - Contractors Guide Deadline - info@malvernnews.co.nz 15 Sept 9:30-12:30 Weekly Malvern Cancer Support Clinic Darfield Library 15 Sept 10am Malvern News - Advertising Deadline - info@malvernnews.co.nz 16 Sept 9am Weekly Darfield Networkers Group - www.networkers.co.nz 16 Sept 11:30-12:30 Weekly Justice of the Peace Service Darfield Library 16 Sept 1:30pm U3A—Food For Though Session 1 Darfield Baptist Church 16 Sept 10am Rolleston News - Deadline - info@malvernnews.co.nz 17 Sept 7:30pm Café Hope AGM St Ambrose Church, Sheffield 18 Sept 10:30am Gospel Services Glentunnel Community Centre 18 Sept 10am Malvern News - Contractors Guide Deadline - info@malvernnews.co.nz 19 Sept 7:30am Hororata Mechanical Swap Meet Hororata Domain 19 Sept 10am Darfield Tennis Club Open Day and Working Bee Darfield Tennis Club 19 Sept 2pm Glenroy Hall Centenary Glenroy Hall 20 Sept 1:30pm Kate Sheppard House Part 1 Terrace Station 20 Sept 2pm MSM Annual Concert Darfield Rec Centre 23 Sept 1:30pm U3A—Food For Though Session 2 Darfield Baptist Church 23 Sept 2pm Friends of Darfield Hospital AGM Catholic Church 25 Sept Darfield Touch Jnr & Snr Registrations Close 26 Sept 9am Malvern Anglican Parish Spring Fair Trintiy Church, Darfield 26 Sept 2:30pm An Afternoon with Rebecca Nelson DHS Hall 27 Sept 12pm Terrace Station Hororata Part 2 Terrace Station 27 Sept 4pm Oxford Working Men’s Club AGM 160 High Street, Oxford 30 Sept Darfield Art Week Entries Close 10-18 Oct Darfield Art Week 13 Oct 7pm Selwyn Rugby Club AGM Selwyn Clubrooms 18 Oct Springfield Festival - Community Market and Classic Car Display 22 Oct 7pm Malvern Community Board Workshop Sheffield Library 22 Oct 7:30pm Rural Women - Meet the Candidates Evening DPS Hall
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
Page 14 PUBLIC NOTICES
Friday 11th September 2026 PUBLIC NOTICES
Spring greetings to you as the winds of change blow in the skies, and natures beauty is bursting out of the land to bless us with colours and vibrant, sweet fragrances. Last month we spoke of the importance of breathing deeply and slowly, when in times of challenge or overwhelm. This month I would like to go a little deeper exploring a very simple approach that is available for us all. As we know, we cannot control what life gives us; yet we can develop ways to connect with an inner calm or sanctuary. Being alone, still and hanging out is one of the simplest gifts we can give ourselves; we reconnect with a natural inner calm, regardless of the thoughts or feelings that may be running rampant. Physical stillness is very doable. It is not a tricky technique, and we may need to watch the mind telling us, ‘We don’t have time to do nothing’, instead we MAKE time to do nothing! Can you allow yourself daily pauses and still times, to reset your body and nervous system, even for a few minutes? Switch off technology for a while. Sit or be in nature. We are profoundly connected to nature; the frequency of earth and bodies of water are the best stabilisers we can fully rely on. With natural disasters and man-made conflict happening locally and globally, we can feel vulnerable and insecure. Hold your own hand, befriend your anxious mind and beating heart; PAUSE, breathe, stay with and in your body. Prioritise still times, being alone with you. You are worth it.
CHURCH NOTICES
CHURCH NOTICES
CHURCH NOTICES
CATTERY
FIREWOOD & COAL
FIREWOOD & COAL WILLOW wood, Dry. 4 and 8 Meter loads. Good clean burning wood. Free delivery. Phone 027 781 1492.
Lisa Mills is a qualified Creative Therapist, Yoga teacher and Reiki Healer; she runs Golden Touch Counselling and Healing Service and teaches local yoga classes.
ACCOUNTANTS ARE your accounts taking up valuable time you’d rather spend growing your business or with your family? Let the team at Sterling Accountants handle your accounting and tax compliance—right here on your doorstep. Call AnnMaree at Malvern Business Hub: 021 215 0981.
BUSINESS COACHING IS IT time to redesign your Life? Running a business shouldn’t feel this hard. I help local business owners fix t e a m a n d l ea d er s h i p problems without losing good workers. Kieron McGhie Strategic People & Performance Coach Darfield. Confidential local coaching. Phone 021 276 8311.
CARPET/WINDOWS CARPET/Window Cleaning. CARPET Thorough job, good price, CHIMNEY CLEANING quick drying. Highly Chimney Cleaning. CARRS recommended. Please phone/ Servicing the Selwyn district. text Robert anytime on $90 per chimney. Please ph 027 299 9599. Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leave a message. CELEBRANT CHIM Chim. We'll sweep your log-burners flue, check the firebricks, baffles, air-tubes and controls. We're experts on coal-ranges, also sweeping any sized open fire. We quote and undertake repairs, flue extensions and install bird netting. Ph 021 939 113.
COUNSELING RECEIVE valuable, professional support as you navigate life's challenges. Confidential servi ce wi th q ual i fi ed therapist, Lisa Mills. Initial free 1/2 hour consultation. O27 814 0785. www.goldentouch.co.nz
LIVESTOCK FOR SALE
LIVESTOCKFOR SALE
Page 15
Friday 11th September 2026 BUSINESS CARDS
PAINTING/DECORATING
PAINTING/DECORATING
SCRAP METAL
WANTED
WANTED! Amalgamated Scrap AMMUNITION and reloading Ltd. Buying cars & farm e q u i p m e n t . P o w d e r machinery. Specialising in projectiles, presses etc. Any farm clean-ups. Best prices caliber rifle / shotgun. Rod McQuoid - buyer. Please Anything hunting related. ph 027 695 0480 or Cash buyer. Please contact alternatively 0800 030 712. Rob 03 342 5885.
GARDENING WINTER tidy-up. Lawn mowing and garden services. Large sections a specialty with catcher or side discharge. Hedge trimming and other garden maintenance services also available. Regular or one -off jobs. Based in Darfield and servicing Selwyn. Contact Grant on 021 619 165.
PLANTS FOR SALE
PLANTS FOR SALE
ADVERTISING DEADLINE: 10am Tuesday STORAGE DISCOUNT Container Storage. For all your secure storage needs (secure site with camera). Cardale St, Darfield. Phone Phil 021 223 4553.
TENANCY
GRAZING WANTED SITUATIONS VACANT
SITUATIONS VACANT
RURAL Tenancy Inspections. Also providing Total Rural and Residential Property Ma nag emen t Sol u tion s. Please phone the office 03 745 7102 or email office@ruraltenancy.co.nz
WINDOW REPAIRS
WINDOWS REPAIRS
TRADES
TRADES
LEASE LAND WANTED LEASE land wanted. Selwyn area suitable for cattle grazing. All sizes consider. Phone Reg 027 567 0720.
MORTGAGE ADVISOR ARE you in need of a refinance, first home loan, buying a new home, investment property or a property development? I deal with all the lenders, and I can get you the best deal to suit you. I have 30+ years of lending experience, and I am local. I can come to you. Alan Lover Loan Market 027 2516644.
I bring the banks to you. PEST CONTROL
PLANTS FOR SALE EMERALD FARM Native Plants, locally sourced. Lots of varieties. Call and see if we have what you need. Based near Darfield. Please phone Annie 027 370 2067.
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Friday 11th September 2026
TRADES
WINDOW TINTING
TINT-A-WINDOW • Solar Protective films. • Fade UV block. • Heat Glare control. • Privacy. • Safety/Security. • Frosted films.
Free online quotes. Ph 0800 368 468. info@tintawindow.co.nz www.tintawindow.co.nz
A woman went to doctor's office for her annual examinaBon. Suddenly, another older doctor noBced her burst out of the examinaBon room, screaming as she ran down the hall. He stopped the hysterical woman and asked her to sit down and relax. Then, he asked her what she was so upset about. A few minutes later, the older doctor marched back to the woman's doctor and demanded, "What's the maDer with you? Mrs. Terry is 73 years old, she has four grown children, and seven grandchildren... and you told her she was pregnant?" The woman's doctor smiled smugly as he conBnued to write on his clipboard, "Cured her chronic hiccups though, didn't I?" A wife buys a dozen pairs of underwear of the same colour for her husband. The husband protested, saying, "Why buy me the same colour? People will think I never change my underwear!" The wife asked, "Which people?" There was total silence...